Antarctica

The Southern Grand Passage – World’s End to Buenos Aires

19 Days aboard SH Vega. From AUD $20,374pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

The Southern Grand Passage cruise offers an extraordinary journey from the remote wilderness of World’s End to the vibrant city of Buenos Aires. This expedition takes you through some of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes at the southern tip of South America. You’ll navigate through icy straits, towering glaciers, and windswept islands, all while experiencing the rich natural beauty and unique wildlife of this rugged region. It’s a voyage designed for those who crave adventure and discovery in one of the planet’s last great frontiers.

As you sail northward, the journey blends breathtaking scenery with cultural encounters, culminating in the lively atmosphere of Buenos Aires. This cruise promises a rare blend of exploration and refinement, with expert guides sharing their deep knowledge of the region’s history, geography, and ecosystems. Whether you’re marveling at penguin colonies or enjoying the vibrant urban life at the journey’s end, The Southern Grand Passage offers an unforgettable expedition that connects you deeply with the spirit of the southern hemisphere.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Sail icy straits and glaciers from World’s End to Buenos Aires on this epic southern adventure.
  • See penguins and pristine wildlife in some of the world’s most remote, stunning landscapes.
  • Enjoy expert guides and end your journey in vibrant, charming Buenos Aires.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Buenos Aires (Hotel Night)
  • Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark
  • Day 3 and 4: Day at sea
  • Day 5 to 7: Antarctic Peninsula
  • Day 8 and 9: Day at sea
  • Day 10 and 11: South Georgia
  • Day 12 and 13: Day at sea
  • Day 14: Port Stanley
  • Day 15: Saunders Island
  • Day 16 to 18: Day at sea
  • Day 19: Buenos Aires

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Ship Information

For more information on the SH Vega please view the ship page.

View SH Vega

Travelling with Eclipse

Peace of Mind
  • Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
  • We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
  • No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
  • We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Buenos Aires (Hotel Night)

You will be met by a cruise representative upon your arrival at your hotel in Buenos Aires and will be updated on the schedule for the following day. The evening is free for you to explore.

Day 2: Fly to Ushuaia and Embark

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Ushuaia. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation.

Ushuaia is the gateway to the White Continent. Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range in Argentina's Patagonia region, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. Often described as 'the End of the World', the city carries the reputation well - the moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help.

Breakfast and Dinner included.

Day 3 and 4: Day at sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5 to 7: Antarctic Peninsula

Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8 and 9: Day at sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10 and 11: South Georgia

Often called the 'Galapagos of the Poles,' South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 12 and 13: Day at sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 14: Port Stanley

Anyone familiar with Britain’s trademark red post boxes might spot a resemblance in this British outpost. Port Stanley, on East Falkland, is the tiny capital of the Falkland Islands and is small enough to get around on foot. The Historic Dockyard Museum is devoted to maritime history and exploration. Magellanic penguins gather on the beach at nearby Gypsy Cove, and sea lions and dolphins frolic in the harbour.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 15: Saunders Island

Black-browed albatross grace the skies over this remote Falkland Island, while Commerson's dolphins play in its waters. With a sparse population of people and sheep, the island is also a sanctuary for fur seals, rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and imperial cormorants, nesting amid its cliffs and the impressive Cliff Mountain. Hiking through the moss-covered terrain unveils beautiful wildflowers like pink-petalled Felton's.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 16 to 18: Day at sea

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 19: Buenos Aires

Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, often dubbed 'The Paris of South America,' is a city of diverse neighbourhoods (barrios) and vibrant cafe culture. Each district has its own character - none more so than colourful La Boca, where tango dancers perform in the streets. The handsome district of Recoleta is famous for the cemetery where Eva 'Evita' Peron is buried, while ships dock into the regenerated waterfront barrio Puerto Madero.

After breakfast, you will disembark and be transferred to the port.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 13 Mar 2028
DatesCabinFromAdditional
13 Mar 2028 - 31 Mar 2028 AUD$20374ppExpand to view prices
Triple Oceanview M4 AUD$20374ppContact us
Triple Balcony M5 AUD$22332ppContact us
Oceanview D4AUD$23300ppContact us
Oceanview M4AUD$24450ppContact us
Balcony D5AUD$25625ppContact us
Balcony M5AUD$26800ppContact us
Balcony D6AUD$27950ppContact us
Quadruple SuiteAUD$30581ppContact us
SuiteAUD$40775ppContact us
Premium SuiteAUD$46600ppContact us
  • Please note that cabins Balcony D6, Premium Suite and some Balcony D5 can also be converted into Triples. The Third person will pay only 50% off fare.
  • Triple Cabins can also be converted into Quads for 2 children.
  • When sharing a cabin, children up to the age of 16 pay only 35% of the fare. Those aged 17 and above will pay 50% of the fare.

Ask us for specific pricing.

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Oceanview D4

20 m2
Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview D4
Oceanview D4
Oceanview M4

20 m2
Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview M4
Oceanview M4
Balcony D5

25 m2
Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony.

Balcony D5
Balcony D5
Balcony M5

25 m2
Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony.

Balcony M5
Balcony M5
Balcony D6

25 m2
Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony.

Balcony D6
Balcony D6
Suite

40 m2
Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony.

Suite
Suite
Premium Suite

47 m2
Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.

Premium Suite
Premium Suite
Triple Oceanview M4

19 m2
Located on Deck 4 at the bow. Light, bright and crafted from natural materials Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds or a double bed, a bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
To make it a Triple room, the third guest will sleep on a Single Sofa bed – Dimensions of the Sofa: 1860 X 1230 mm
This cabin can also be converted into Quad on request.

Triple Oceanview M4
Triple Oceanview M4
Triple Balcony M5

28 m2
Balcony stateroom is a Swan Hellenic guest favorite. Located on Deck 5 at the centre of the ship, staterooms features 2 single beds or a double bed, bedroom, living room, luxurious bathroom and your own 6 m2 balcony.
To make it a Triple room, the third guest will sleep on a Single Sofa bed – Dimensions of the Sofa: 1900 X 1380 mm
This cabin can also be converted into Quad on request.

Triple Balcony M5
Triple Balcony M5
Quadruple Suite

44 m2
Located on Deck 5 and 6 at the centre of the ship, our spacious Suites with a 12 sq.m. private balconies are a favorite with discerning guests, and those that prefer a little more space and comfort.
To make it a Quad room, the third and fourth guests will sleep on a Double Sofa bed – Dimensions of the Sofa: 1900 X 1380 mm

Quadruple Suite
Quadruple Suite

SH Vega Deckplan

SH Vega deck plan

Specifications

CREW: 120
GUESTS: 152
DECKS: 9
LENGTH: 337 ft (115 m)
DRAFT: 18 ft (5.5 m)
BREADTH: 75 ft (23 m)
REGISTERED: Panama
CRUISING SPEED: 15.5 knots in open water
LIFEBOATS: 2 fully enclosed
PROPULSION DIESEL-ELECTRIC ENGINES: 4x Medium speed, Polar code Cat A

What's included?

  • Group transfer from airport (EZE/AEP) to hotel
  • Group transfer from hotel to airport (EZE) for charter flight
  • Group transfer from airport (USH) to ship
  • Group transfer from ship to port
  • Charter flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
  • One-night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 5-star hotel
  • All meals onboard
  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages available 24 hours per day
  • Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • Standard Wi-Fi (Gold Wi-Fi for BD6 & Platinum Wi-Fi for Suites)
  • Onboard gratuities and port taxes
  • Expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions.
  • Backpack and stainless-steel water bottle

What's not?

  • Any items not mentioned as included.

Important notes and additional information

  • Please note that cabins Balcony D6, Premium Suite and some Balcony D5 can also be converted into Triples. The Third person will pay only 50% off fare.
  • Triple Cabins can also be converted into Quads for 2 children.
  • When sharing a cabin, children up to the age of 16 pay only 35% of the fare. Those aged 17 and above will pay 50% of the fare.

Ask us for specific pricing.

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Antarctica

On any cruise to Antarctica you can expect to experience a wide variety of landscapes, unprecedented wildlife viewing opportunities and a healthy mix of historic landing sites. Be astounded by the sensory overload of the huge amount of ice-bergs, glaciers, high mountains and the abundant and tame wildlife.

Downloadable travel guide

Planning your next adventure has never been easier with our free downloadable travel guides. Get in-depth insights into local attractions, dining options, and hidden gems, all curated by our team of travel specialists with decades of experience.

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The Southern Grand Passage – World’s End to Buenos Aires

19 Days aboard SH Vega. From AUD $20,374pp.